The exhibition will take a close and detailed look at Balenciaga’s designs to determine what made them so special, while his legacy will be shown through the display of creations by protégés like Courrèges and Ungaro.

"We are thrilled to present, for the first time in North America, this unique exhibition highlighting the artistry of one of the world's greatest fashion designers," said Suzanne Sauvage, President and Chief Executive Officer of the McCord Museum, in a news statement. "This exhibition enables the Museum to utilize its conservation and costume mounting expertise, in addition to offering insight into Cristóbal Balenciaga's lasting impact on generations of designers and the history and evolution of haute couture. His inspiration and influence continue to this day."

The exhibition will further feature sketches, photographs and fabric samples to help contextualize Balenciaga’s garments and patterns, as well as x-rays, toiles and film to further illustrate the construction and making of his designs.